TED Talks Daily Sunday Pick: How much water do you actually need a day?
Jul 21, 2024
Dr. Jen Gunter, a practicing gynecologist and author, passionately debunks hydration myths and empowers listeners with accurate health information. She reveals the scandalous history behind the eight-glass-a-day rule and discusses how hydration can actually be achieved through food. A nephrologist joins her to explain kidney health and the risks of overhydration, including its potential dangers. Gunter emphasizes trusting your body's thirst signals instead of blindly following outdated recommendations, paving the way for a more intuitive approach to hydration.
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Ruptured Spleen
- At age 10, Dr. Jen Gunter ruptured her spleen skateboarding, leading to hydronephrosis.
- This experience and a doctor's explanation of her body inspired her to become a doctor.
8 Glasses Myth Origins
- The 8 glasses of water a day myth originates from misinterpreted 1945 and 1974 studies.
- Experts recommended 6-8 glasses of total water intake, not just plain water.
Myth Persistence
- The 8-glasses-a-day myth's stickiness is due to several factors, including the beverage industry's influence.
- This industry promoted the fear of dehydration to boost sales.